Servings
Font
Back
0 from 33 votes

Ricotta Recipe

This foolproof method for homemade ricotta cheese is so easy to make. This recipe uses buttermilk as the acid to produce a super creamy ricotta with the best flavor and texture.  

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
20 mins
Servings: 1 ½ cups
Calories: 2943 kcal
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 6 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 cups buttermilk

Notes

  • Be sure to refrain from stirring the mixture as it comes up to a simmer. This will ensure the curds stay nice and large and don't break up too much, which is what you want.
  • Use a hand held strainer to scoop out the curds and transfer them to the cheese cloth rather than pouring the whole pot of liquid into it. This will make straining the ricotta much easier. 
  • No cheese cloth? A coffee filter or a few layers of paper towels can work too. The paper towels can tear easily when wet, so handle them with care. 
  • The leftover liquid (whey) contains lots of protein and nutrients, so don't throw it out! Store it in a container, refrigerate it and add it to smoothies and other recipes, like baked goods, in place of water, or use it to soak legumes or grains. It also freezes well. 
  • Homemade ricotta can easily be turned into Paneer or Queso Fresco by keeping it in the strainer, covering with cheesecloth, then placing a plate along with something heavy (like a large can) on top and storing it in the refrigerator overnight (12-24 hours) with a bowl underneath to catch the liquid. I like to mix in some salt before pressing if I'm going this route. 

Nutrition Information

Calories 2943kcal (147%) Carbohydrates 117g (39%) Protein 85g (170%) Fat 243g (374%) Saturated Fat 150g (750%) Polyunsaturated Fat 10g Monounsaturated Fat 59g Cholesterol 793mg (264%) Sodium 1441mg (60%) Potassium 3620mg (103%) Sugar 119g (238%) Vitamin A 10557IU (211%) Vitamin C 3mg (3%) Calcium 2943mg (294%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1½ cups

Amount Per Serving

Calories 2943

% Daily Value*

Calories 2943kcal 147%
Carbohydrates 117g 39%
Protein 85g 170%
Fat 243g 374%
Saturated Fat 150g 750%
Polyunsaturated Fat 10g 59%
Monounsaturated Fat 59g 295%
Cholesterol 793mg 264%
Sodium 1441mg 60%
Potassium 3620mg 77%
Sugar 119g 238%
Vitamin A 10557IU 211%
Vitamin C 3mg 3%
Calcium 2943mg 294%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.